Don’t get too jolly, You might end up in jail!
15 December 2020, Crystelle Steyn
As the festive season approach and we come to an end of another year we see more and more drunk and driving cases congest our court rolls.
The traffic as well as the Police officers are more vigilant during this Covid-19 pandemic knowing very well people are meeting with friends or family during this time to celebrate the festivities coming up and they are especially looking for people driving under the influence of alcohol as this is one of the biggest causes of accidents on our roads.
Should you be pulled over by an officer and they suspect that you were drinking and you fail a breathalyzer test, YOU WILL BE ARRESTED and detained at the nearest Police station. This might not even be in the town you are residing in! You will be detained until either police bail has been set for you or have appeared in Court within 48 hours and only then bail may be set depending on the seriousness of the charge. If found guilty you may get a hefty fine or be sentenced to prison for up to 6 years. Regardless of the sentence, you will end up with a criminal record as well as risking to get your licence suspended.
Currently the legal alcohol limit to be found in any blood specimen taken from you when driving after consuming alcohol must be LESS than 0.05g per 100ml. Our bodies (depending on how heavy or light you weigh) can only digest 1 unit of alcohol per hour to not be over the legal limit. To put it in perspective: 1 glass of wine = 1 unit, a beer = 1 ½ units or more and 1 cider = 2 units. This means that should you consume 1 beer, you need to wait at least 2 hours thereafter before you intend to drive. Let that sink in. 2 Hours is a long time for only 1 beer to digest.
Rather drink at home without having to drive anywhere or if needs be, appoint a designated driver to get you home safe.
Yes, it is the season to be jolly, but be careful before you decide to drive. Don’t think you will be lucky and not get caught.